State Rep. Chuck Jefferson leaving office to focus on health

ROCKFORD — Chuck Jefferson, a democratic state representative from Rockford, said Thursday he is “retiring, not resigning” from his elected office.

He submitted his letter of resignation Tuesday and the news has been widely reported. Jefferson told media gathered Thursday at the E.J. “Zeke” Giorgi Center’s auditorium at 200 S. Wyman St. he’s decided to end his career to focus on his health.

“You eventually ... lose your effectiveness,” Jefferson, 69, said of aging in office. “I mean, you get old ... you’re not as nimble as you used to be. You can’t do things you used to do.”

Jefferson nominated Litesa Wallace, his chief of staff, to replace him as representative for the 67th district. Wallace’s nomination will be considered by the Democratic Central Committee, he said.

“It’s out of my hands,” Jefferson said. “I simply made a recommendation. She’s got the experience. She’s been in office for the last three years. She’s been to Springfield on a number of occasions.”

Wallace said “she was not a part of that conversation” and said she doesn’t know what will happen in regard to her nomination. She declined to comment further.

Jefferson plans to devote his retirement to community service. Volunteering at the Booker T. Washington Center is “at the top of my list,” he said.

Following Jefferson’s farewell remarks, former Rockford Ald. Victory Bell stood and condemned Charlie Laskonis, chairman of the Winnebago County Democratic Party, for not introducing Dorothy “Dot” Turner, a committeewoman for the state’s 17th congressional district, as a speaker.

Bell’s wife, Carol Bell, lost a Democratic primary bid for the 67th House seat to Jefferson in 2002.

Laskonis told Bell it was not an appropriate time to discuss his concerns.

“I am not out of order,” Bell said. “If you feel I am, take the door.”